Mobile trade-in may be necessary to enjoy universal charger

Consumers who would like to benefit from using the new universal charger that is due to hit the market in 2011 may first have to trade-in their mobile phone.

That is because the design will work with virtually all new handset releases, but not necessarily with older models.

The charger's launch moved a step closer this week when the European Commission issued specifications it must meet, each of which has been approved by the world's 14 largest manufacturers.

Apple, Sony Ericsson, Samsung and Nokia are among the brands to have given the thumbs up to the product.

It will mean an end to users having to search for the right charger for a particular phone, as the majority of handsets will be able to be powered via the new tool.

Antonio Tajani, European commissioner for industry and entrepreneurship, says: "The common charger will make life easier for consumers, reduce waste and benefit businesses. It is a true win-win situation."

Among the models people may like to try the charger out on is the HTC Desire, which was named this week by T3 as one of the top five gadgets of 2010.